Hunting Creek Lake and nearby parts of Cunningham Falls State Park reopened Monday after monitoring found no evidence of more rabid beavers. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources closed the areas after two attacks at the lake.
What Happened: A 13-year-old was bitten while swimming July 26, and a 19-year-old was bitten while fishing Aug. 5. The two beavers involved were killed and later tested positive for rabies.
What’s Confirmed: Biologists used thermal surveys after sunset to search the Hunting Creek Lake area. Trail cameras, trapping and searches for animal signs also indicated no beavers remained. Park staff had not seen beavers near the lake.
The department’s Wildlife and Heritage Service and Natural Resources Police worked with Maryland Park Service staff before reopening the area.
Seneca Creek closures: An unrelated beaver attack remained under investigation at Seneca Creek State Park, 35 miles away near Darnestown.
The Maryland Park Service closed the Berryville Area, Route 28 parking lot and nearby river access points after an Aug. 13 attack. The areas remained closed while officials searched for signs of beavers.
Wildlife safety: Beavers are usually not aggressive and tend to avoid humans. Visitors should stay at least 25 yards from medium-sized wild animals. Anyone bitten or scratched by a wild animal should get medical care immediately.